Dear Legal Metrology Colleagues,

I am pleased to extend to you this invitation to attend the 13th OIML Conference in Sydney in October 2008 that will be held in conjunction with the 43rd CIML Meeting.

Legal metrology has perhaps never been as important as in this time of rapid growth in global trade. The ability of nations to trade with each other depends on fair and transparent legal metrology systems; the well being that has come from balanced trade over just the last 20 years is clear for all to see. The work of the OIML and of the CIML is an important factor in achieving and maintaining such progress.

It is 20 years since Australia has had the opportunity to host the OIML Conference, in 1988. Since then much has changed for Australian metrology with the formation of the National Measurement Institute in 2004; bringing together physical, chemical, biological and legal metrology. The Australian Government also decided in 2007 to establish a national system of trade measurement. NMI has the exciting challenge of leading the transition from the existing, fragmented legal metrology systems to a single national system by 1 July 2010, and then managing it into the future.

I therefore urge you to come and join us in Sydney in October 2008 so that you can learn about our progress and share your experiences with us, as well as participate in the stimulating conference agenda.

Your sincerely

Dr. Laurie Besley
NMI Chief Executive and Chief Metrologist